Nairobi Day Trip :Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage Tour

Exploring Kenya’s wildlife conservation efforts in just a few hours might seem ambitious, but this tour offers a surprisingly fulfilling glimpse into two of Nairobi’s most beloved animal sanctuaries. From feeding gentle giraffes to getting up close with playful baby elephants, it’s an experience that’s both heartwarming and educational.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to hand-feed giraffes—an activity many travelers find both amusing and memorable. Second, the incredible opportunity to witness baby elephants enjoying their daily routines, which often includes splashing in mud and receiving bottles of milk. Third, the emphasis on conservation and the stories of the animals’ rescue efforts add a meaningful layer to the visit.

One consideration to keep in mind is that, as a half-day trip, it’s quite packed, so some might prefer a more leisurely pace. Plus, entry fees are not included in the tour price, which adds a small extra to budget for.

This tour suits animal lovers, families, and anyone interested in wildlife conservation. It’s perfect for those with limited time in Nairobi but wanting a hands-on, authentic encounter with Kenya’s iconic animals.

Key Points

• Convenient half-day private tour that includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Close-up experiences with giraffes and baby elephants, making for unique photo opportunities.
• Educational focus on conservation efforts for the Rothschilds giraffe and orphaned elephants.
• Timing is key: the elephant orphanage’s famous 11:00 AM feeding is an unmissable highlight.
• Entry fees are separate, so budget extra for the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage.
• Suitable for all ages, making it a family-friendly option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Starting Your Day in Nairobi

The tour kicks off with a prompt hotel or airport pickup at 8 am, which is ideal for maximizing your half-day adventure. The convenience of a private guide and vehicle—specifically a pop-top safari minivan—means you’ll travel comfortably and efficiently, avoiding the crowds of larger tours.

Visiting the Giraffe Centre

Your first stop is the Giraffe Centre, the premier sanctuary for the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. We loved the way the setup allows close interaction; you’ll climb a feeding tower that puts you eye-to-eye with these gentle giants. It’s not just about feeding—they are quite tame and often approach with curiosity, sometimes even giving willing visitors a gentle kiss.

A highlight, according to reviews, is the chance to feed a giraffe pellets directly from your hand. It’s a surreal experience—many guests talk about how the giraffes accept the food with a gentle tongue, sometimes surprising even seasoned travelers. The guide will explain the conservation background, emphasizing the importance of the sanctuary in saving this rare species.

Moving on to the Elephant Orphanage

A short drive takes you to the famous David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, arriving just before the 11:00 AM feeding time. This is the moment many visitors find most touching. Watching tiny elephants rush to their handlers, eager for their bottles, offers an instant sense of innocence and resilience. One review noted, “Seeing the baby elephants run to the handlers was a sight I won’t forget.”

Following the feeding, the elephants enjoy their daily mud bath, rolling and spraying each other in the pouring mud. From just a few feet away, you’ll witness their playful side—a scene that often leaves visitors with smiles and a warm heart. The orphanage specializes in rescuing elephants orphaned by drought, poaching, or accidents, and their success stories demonstrate real conservation impact.

More Great Tours Nearby

Why These Places Matter

Both locations are more than just tourist attractions. The Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage serve as vital conservation hubs, contributing to the survival of Kenya’s iconic species. Their stories of rescue and rehabilitation are inspiring, and guides often share how these animals are eventually released back into the wild.

The Tour’s Practical Details

The total tour duration is about four hours, balancing engaging animal encounters with a manageable schedule. The price of $100 per person covers private transportation, hotel pickup, and visits to both sanctuaries—offering good value given the personalized experience. Entry fees for the Giraffe Centre ($15) and Elephant Orphanage ($20) are paid separately, so travelers should budget accordingly.

Some reviews highlight that the tour operates smoothly, with guides being knowledgeable and friendly—adding context and answering questions about the animals and conservation. The flexibility of a private tour means you can tailor your experience slightly or ask for extra time at each stop if desired.

Why This Tour Works Well

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a meaningful, hands-on animal encounter without the full-day commitment. It’s particularly suited for families, first-time visitors, or those with limited time in Nairobi. Because it’s a private tour, it offers a relaxed pace and personal attention, making it easier to ask questions or take plenty of photos.

What we loved:

• The personalized attention and the ease of hotel pickup.
• The chance to interact directly with giraffes and see baby elephants in action.
• The educational aspect that highlights Kenya’s animal conservation efforts.
• The timed visits, especially the famous elephant feeding, which is both adorable and enlightening.

A few notes:

• Entry fees aren’t included, so plan for about $35 extra per person.
• The tour is quite compact, so if you’re looking for a slow, relaxed visit, a full-day or more extensive trip might suit better.
• It’s not suitable for people with animal allergies, as you’ll be very close to the animals.

The Sum Up

This Nairobi day trip balances fun, education, and conservation in a way that appeals to a broad range of travelers. For those looking to connect with Kenya’s iconic wildlife in an intimate setting, it offers authentic moments—whether it’s a giraffe’s gentle lick or a playful baby elephant splashing in the mud.

The convenience of private transport and hotel pickup makes it a hassle-free option, especially if you’re short on time. The focus on conservation stories adds depth to what might otherwise be a simple animal encounter, making it worthwhile for ethically-minded visitors.

This tour provides excellent value—combining memorable animal interactions with meaningful insights into Kenya’s wildlife rescue efforts. It’s perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone eager to see Kenya’s gentle giants up close without the fuss of a full-day safari.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation in a pop-top safari minivan, hotel or airport pickup and drop-off, and visits to both the Giraffe Centre and David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage. Entry fees are paid separately.

What is the best time to visit the elephant orphanage?
The tour is timed to arrive in time for the 11:00 AM elephant feeding, which is the highlight of the visit. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot and see the elephants during their feeding.

Are the visits suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages. Kids often love feeding giraffes and watching baby elephants play. It’s a family-friendly activity that’s both fun and educational.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about four hours, starting at 8 am with hotel pickup and ending with drop-off back at your accommodation.

How much do the entry fees cost?
Entry fees are not included and are approximately $15 for the Giraffe Centre and $20 for the Elephant Orphanage. Be sure to budget for these additional costs.

Is this tour flexible?
As a private experience, it offers some flexibility. You can ask your guide questions, and if time permits, you might spend a little extra time at each location.

This tour offers a memorable, insightful snapshot of Kenya’s wildlife rescue efforts, perfect for those seeking authentic, close-up animal experiences while supporting conservation. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want quality, convenience, and a meaningful connection with Kenya’s gentle giants.

You can check availability for your dates here: